If you met Stewart Cox just once, you would remember him and he would remember you. He had presence. He exuded warmth, kindness and humour that set him apart from most people.
Stewart became President of Golf NT in 2010. Stewart took on this role and immediately began to make improvements in the organisation. He was instrumental in securing long term sponsors and nurturing the relationships with them. He built strong relationships with all of the golf clubs. He also maintained the strong rapport with the NT Government and secured Golf NT as a Tier 1 Sport which came with a significant increase in funding. In 2010 Golf NT became a full member of Golf Australia with voting rights, a direct result of Stewart’s lobbying and conviction in the NT having a voice. Stewart put his trust in others to get the job done. He inspired the staff and committee members, building their confidence and belief in themselves. If Stewart asked you to do something, no matter how small it was, you never disappointed him.
Receiving an OAM for services to hockey, horse racing, golf and sport in general was a great honour for Stewart. He never expected accolades though, he wanted to grow each sport and bring the right people together to achieve that. Stewart was the inaugural Chairman of Thoroughbred Racing NT and President of Hockey NT for ten years. He also served on the NT Major Events Board from 2011-2014. He was a founding member of the Carbine Club Northern Territory and also served as President.
Along with all this service, Stewart owned and ran his insurance business in Darwin. OAMPS acquired the business before selling to Arthur J Gallagher. Stewart was the State Manager of the organisation. Stewart provided wise and sage advice to many around him both on a personal and professional level. Even through his battle with lung cancer he was sharp minded and quick witted.
Stewart was more to me than my boss for 8 years. Stewart and his wife Marian have been personal friends of my husband and I for over ten years. We enjoyed travelling together and even owned houses in Queenstown, New Zealand one street away from each other. We shared many laughs, fun occasions and the odd red wine or two. He was a true gentleman and will be terribly missed by all those who knew him. His legacy will live on through his family and the service he gave.